A home is more than just bricks and mortar, wood and nails. It's a private refuge where we find peace and comfort, spend time together with those closest to us and dream our dreams. Old-house character shines with new-house updates

November 06, 2010

Melissa and Fred Mynsberge appreciate the character of their 100-year-old house on Lindsey Street, South Bend.

FINDING A HOUSE TO LOVE My parents had moved over to this neighborhood for a smaller house, so we were familiar with the neighborhood. We bought this house in May of 2009. It's 100 years old, but it's like a brand-new house. The Near Northwest Neighborhood had rehabbed it and put in all new plumbing and a new roof and high-efficiency windows and air conditioning. We liked the big front porch. We ended up buying the lot behind us so we will put a garage back there. -- Fred Mynsberge We'd liked all the houses that the NNN had rehabbed, and thought they were beautiful. One day we were over here in the neighborhood and saw the for-sale sign and contacted the Realtor. We liked it right away. It was the only house we looked at. I like all the ceramic tile and hardwood floors throughout. I like the character of the house, the dual stairway from the kitchen or the living room, and the French doors to the dining room. Each house has its own distinct perks. It's got all the features you'd want without the new-home price. -- Melissa Mynsberge Becky Emmons is always on the lookout for houses that appear to be loved; don't be surprised if she knocks on your front door. She also appreciates suggestions from readers. If you love your house, tell us why. Contact her at the South Bend Tribune, 225 W. Colfax Ave., South Bend, IN 46626; 574-235-6480; or e-mail bemmons@sbtinfo.com. " " " "